Whether you pick a secret message or motto, a custom name necklace adds a pop of personality to any get-up. Bonus: These picks are all under $50!

CARLY name necklace
Photo by: Jake Ladehoff/Yacht Club, with name necklace from ACQ London.

Just one well-picked accessory can transform your whole look and even boost your confidence as you step into the day. And a name necklace (also called a nameplate necklace) is a winning pick for all budgets. With endless personalization possibilities—like word choice, font, material, you name it!—for truly-you style, it’s no wonder name necklaces are Etsy’s most popular* jewelry find. Plus, they’re a thoughtful gift for birthdays, bridesmaids, and other special people and moments.

Even though this beloved fashion favorite has “name” as part of its moniker, that’s just one option for what you can display on your chain of choice. Whether you opt for your favorite word or catchphrase, an affirmation, or a secret message in Morse code, small shops on Etsy can help you make your creative vision a reality. Ready for custom jewelry inspo? Keep reading for five unexpected twists on name necklaces to put a spell on your wardrobe.

1. A bold message

Big, bright cotton-cord word necklaces SHOP: Custom cord necklace from Handmade by Tinni, $35

Whether you want to keep a motivating message close to your heart or summon love in the dog park, this large-yet-lightweight custom word necklace makes a statement. Choose a five-letter or so word, as well as your favorite color of chunky cotton cord, and get ready to make a splash.

2. Pearlescent prose

Mother-of-pearl letter necklaces SHOP: Personalized glass bead name or word necklace from ACQ London, $42

Shimmering mother-of-pearl and colored glass beads are the stars of this gorgeous necklace. String together your choice of letters, numbers, and shapes or symbols (like animals, plant forms, and ampersands) for a necklace that’s uniquely you.

3. A minimalist message

Dainty engraved name tag necklace from Etsy Dainty tag necklace from Etsy, engraved with the word SHOP: Name tag necklaces with box chain from Caitlyn Minimalist, from $40

Keep a resonant word, a milestone date, or a loved one’s name near and dear with this dainty, name tag necklace. You have the option to personalize not only the engraved words, but also the font, chain length (from 14 to 24 inches), and the finishing (silver, gold, or rose gold) for custom elegance.

4. A beaded BFF necklace

Colorful, retro, beaded best friends charm necklaces from Etsy SHOP: Custom beaded name necklace from Georgia Goddess Gifts, $23

Whether you’re in your wanderlust era or picking out an I-totally-get-you gift for your bestie, this bright and colorful beaded necklace brings the mood-boosting fun. Spell out a name or message in letter beads (in your choice of color), surrounded by super-cute charms, and make your friend’s day!

5. A cursive missive

Handmade cursive wire name necklaces from Etsy SHOP: Custom wire name necklace from B-Unique, from $22

“My niece asked for a necklace with her name on it because she doesn’t have a mainstream name and can never find her name at souvenir stores,” writes one customer. “When she opened up the beautiful wrapped box, she was elated!” Whether shopping for a family member, your work bestie, or your bridesmaids, these cursive necklaces, made by hand with wire (your pick: sterling silver, gold plated, or 14K gold-filled) make a heartfelt gift.

More custom name necklace ideas

Gold name necklaces in various fonts SHOP: Custom name necklaces from Caitlyn Minimalist, $42

Nameplate and name necklaces in a variety of styles from Etsy SHOP: (clockwise from top left) Minimal acrylic name necklace from Jill Makes, from $35; rainbow sprinkles name necklace from isewcute, $20; mirrored initial necklace from Jewelry Kat Made, $30; and gold or silver initial necklace from Petite Vagabonde, $48

*According to Etsy's internal sales data from January 1, 2024 through January 1, 2025.